City of Rochester
News Release
(Thursday, Aug. 18, 2011) — City Neighborhood and Business Development Commissioner R. Carlos Carballada joined Business Association of the South Wedge Area (BASWA) officers Christina Jones, Karrie Laughton, Rose O’Keefe and Jim Wolff today for a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the SWEDGE Shop at 732 South Ave.
The SWEDGE Shop will help bring resources and information to the district’s business owners in the form of guest speakers and seminars on business related topics. The goal is to use the space in a co-op manner for very small businesses who need office space for meeting with clients. Additionally the space is being used to sell local artists’ items and South Wedge merchandise, to promote interest, pride, awareness of the local history and “shop local” values in community members.
“Providing a space for grassroots support and dialogue among district business owners is the most direct and effective way to address owners’ concerns,” said Commissioner Carballada. “Rochester is fortunate to have such involved and committed business owners who contribute to the economic health and vibrancy of their communities, and therefore the entire city.”
BASWA was established in 2003 by business owners in the South Wedge neighborhood of Rochester. BASWA is a non-profit organization run by local business owners. The Association’s service area encompasses South Avenue and the northern sections of Mount Hope and South Clinton Avenues.
BASWA is committed to enhancing the commercial district for both businesses and community residents through promotional campaigns, beautification projects and special events which are funded through grants, donations and membership dues.
Any owner of a business in the district may join BASWA for an annual membership of $100. Along with the benefits of the SWEDGE Shop, BASWA members may participate in discounted or free advertising through group advertising and promotional projects. In addition, district business owners may obtain business planning and marketing assistance from the organization.
The SWEDGE Shop is currently open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m.
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News Media: For more information, contact Neighborhood and Business Development Commissioner R. Carlos Carballada at 428-8801.